BY SANDERS KENNEDY
“Childless cat ladies” and other pet lovers jammed a City Council hearing in support of a new bill that would stop the sale of pets at retail stores and address the overcrowding in animal shelters.
“No one is eating cats and dogs, we are trying to save them,” said Julia Ruiz, 46, who poked fun at the unsupported lie about Haitians in Springfield, Ohio, that was brought up by former President Donald Trump during the presidential debate.
“Of course I’m joking, but seriously, I see so many stray cats running around my neighborhood with no place to go,” said Ruiz, who rescued three black cats. “People can’t afford to take care of them. I can barely afford to take care of the cats I have.”
On Friday, Sept. 13, members of the New York City Council’s Health Committee and several animal rescue organizations gave testimony on the bill, introduced by Council Member Justin Brannan, and on possible resources to help with the over population at animal shelters.
“We’re here today because we can all agree that the greatest city in the world needs to do a much better job at being the most humane city in the world,” said Brannan.
The bill would align with the new state law banning the sale of dogs and cats at pet shops. Many of the changes proposed in the city bill would help the department further enforce the state ban when it goes into effect later this year.
“So much of our overcrowded shelters are due to the lack of veterinary care,” said Brannon. “I am worried that the city of New York right now is taking advantage of, if not, exploiting the compassion of animal lovers.”
The adoption process can take “up to a week,” according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which can discourage some people from adopting
“I was asked more questions than when I was trying to rent an apartment,” said Kristin Maddison, 25, who adopted a five-year-old mixed breed poodle. “After the long interrogation, I had to wait two weeks to get Piper.”
“Each organization that adopts animals out sets their own policies and procedures,” said Alexander Silver, Director, Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare, who was there to testify. “So, it can really vary depending on which organization and rescue you’re working with.”
Silver went on to clarify the process of “open adoption philosophy” that would make it easier to adopt.
“Sheltering leaders across the country are really promoting what’s called open adoption philosophy encouraging fewer barriers to adoption,” Silver added. “It doesn’t mean that you don’t have any requirements, it’s conversation based. It’s about finding the right fit and not creating more barriers.”
Animal shelters in NYC are over 200% capacity. In July, the Animal Care Center took in nearly 1,500 animals.
“ACC accepts every animal brought to us whether the animal has been abandoned, surrendered or found as a stray,” said Risa Weinstock, CEO of Animal Care Center in her testimony. “Since January of this year ACC has taken in over 13,000 animals.”
Lowering the overcrowding in animal shelters would take more than people adopting a new friend, according to Weinstock.
“Adoption alone will not solve these issues or alleviate the strain on our shelters,” said Weinstock. “No one organization can fix what is happening but all of us working together can certainly lead to a stronger state of animal welfare in New York City.”
During the hearing animal advocates were asked to “keep it down” by the sergeant at arms, when they began to cheer in support. They were advised to hold their hands in the air and twist them a couple of times, which is the American Sign Language for cheering.
“I was filled with emotion,” said Valerie Peters, 59, who was informed that everyone would be removed from Council chambers if the outburst continued. “I had to let it out. I just really care about the safety of animals.”
The ASPCA mobile adoption center was parked outside of City Hall, with cats up for adoption.
“I want that one right there,” said Brooke Edwards, 38, when pointing to a black and white cat. “I’ll be another childless cat lady.” she laughed.